In a harrowing incident that underscores the dangers faced by law enforcement officers on our roads, Moorestown police corporal Kevin Sloan and his K9 partner Saltz found themselves in a life-threatening situation this past week. The pair's remarkable escape from tragedy has sparked a renewed call for drivers to remain vigilant and attentive when approaching emergency scenes.

Unwavering Dedication: The Unbreakable Bond Between Cop and Canine

Responding to a Tragic Accident

On Monday, October 28th, Sloan and Saltz were among the officers dispatched to the scene of a fatal accident in Maple Shade. A 35-year-old pedestrian had been struck by a pickup truck towing a utility trailer, and then hit two more times by other vehicles. Tragically, the man was pronounced dead at the scene, with no signs of impairment, criminality, or reckless driving on the part of the drivers involved.

A Harrowing Moment of Peril

As Sloan directed traffic away from the crash site, he suddenly spotted a car barreling towards him, showing no signs of slowing down. In a heart-stopping moment, the vehicle slammed directly into Sloan's patrol car, where Saltz was waiting inside. "He was visibly shaken up. I've never seen him- he as in the back of the car just rattled about it. It was a very nerve-racking experience to say the least," Sloan recounted, his voice tinged with the weight of the ordeal.

Miraculously Unharmed

Remarkably, both Sloan and Saltz emerged from the incident unscathed, a testament to their training and the protective measures in place. However, the police vehicle was likely totaled in the collision. "Cars and equipment, they are replaceable. Dogs and humans are not," Sloan emphasized, underscoring the true value of the partnership between officer and K9.

Resilience and Recovery

While Saltz is now resting at home, Sloan shared that the canine is eager to return to duty. "He gets wound up when he is home. He gets very wound up," the officer noted, highlighting the unwavering dedication and resilience of these four-legged law enforcement heroes.

A Sobering Reminder for Drivers

Sloan's harrowing experience has left a lasting impression, and he hopes it will serve as a powerful reminder for all drivers to remain vigilant and attentive when approaching emergency scenes. "Just make sure that you're paying attention. If you see flashing lights, if you see a construction site, even a sign. Just keep in mind. Hey, there might be someone else on the road in front of me," he urged, emphasizing the critical importance of situational awareness on our roads.

Ensuring a Timely Recovery

The Moorestown Police Department is fully insured, and they are working to ensure a swift replacement of the damaged vehicle and K9 equipment. "The issue is obviously trying to get that in a timely fashion to get that back on the road," said Moorestown Director of Police Patrick Reilly, underscoring the department's commitment to restoring their vital resources.The remarkable resilience and unwavering dedication displayed by Corporal Sloan and K9 Saltz in the face of such a perilous situation is a testament to the bravery and selflessness of law enforcement officers who risk their lives to protect our communities. As the investigation into the incident continues, this harrowing event serves as a poignant reminder for all drivers to remain vigilant and attentive, ensuring the safety of both emergency responders and fellow motorists on our roads.